Old Cairo, also known as Misr Al-Qadima, is a historic district located in the southern part of Cairo, Egypt. It is home to many ancient monuments and landmarks, including churches, mosques, synagogues, and museums.
One of the most famous landmarks in Old Cairo is the Coptic Orthodox Church of St. George, also known as the Hanging Church, which dates back to the 3rd century AD. The church is called the Hanging Church because it was built on the top of a Roman gatehouse and appears to be hanging over the street below.
Another popular attraction in Old Cairo is the Ben Ezra Synagogue, which is believed to be the site where baby Moses was found. The synagogue dates back to the 9th century and has undergone many renovations over the years.
The Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque is also located in Old Cairo and is considered to be the first mosque built in Egypt. It was constructed in the 7th century and has undergone many renovations since then.
Other notable attractions in Old Cairo include the Babylon Fortress, which dates back to the Roman era, the Museum of Islamic Art, and the Church of Abu Serga, which is believed to be the oldest church in Cairo.
Overall, Old Cairo is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring Egypt’s rich history and cultural heritage.
The history of Old Cairo (Misr Al-Qadima)
Old Cairo, or Misr Al-Qadima, has a long and rich history that dates back to ancient times. The area was originally settled in the 6th century BC by the Pharaonic Egyptians, who built the Babylon Fortress to protect the eastern borders of the country.
During the Roman period, the fortress was expanded and developed into a major city. Many of the buildings and structures that still stand in Old Cairo today were constructed during this time, including the Coptic Orthodox Church of St. George, which was built on the site of a Roman gatehouse.
In the 7th century, Old Cairo was conquered by Arab forces led by the Muslim general Amr Ibn Al-As, who established the city of Fustat on the banks of the Nile. Fustat became the first capital of Islamic Egypt and remained an important center of trade and culture for several centuries.
During the Fatimid period in the 10th century, Cairo was established as the new capital of Egypt, and Fustat was gradually abandoned. Many of the buildings and monuments in Old Cairo were destroyed or fell into disrepair during this time.
However, in the 19th century, the Egyptian government began a program of restoration and preservation, which has helped to revive and protect the historic district. Today, Old Cairo is home to many important religious and cultural sites, including churches, mosques, and synagogues, as well as museums and other landmarks that reflect the area’s long and fascinating history.
Iconic Building in Old Cairo (Misr Al-Qadima)
There are many iconic buildings in Old Cairo that are considered to be significant historical and cultural landmarks. Here are some of the most notable ones:
- The Hanging Church: Also known as the Coptic Orthodox Church of St. George, the Hanging Church is one of the oldest and most famous churches in Cairo. It is built on top of the ruins of a Roman fortress and is known for its unique architecture and beautiful religious icons.
- The Ben Ezra Synagogue: Located in the heart of Old Cairo, the Ben Ezra Synagogue is believed to be one of the oldest synagogues in Egypt. It has a rich history and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
- Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque: Considered to be the first mosque built in Egypt, the Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque is an important religious site that has been restored and renovated many times over the centuries.
- The Church of Abu Serga: Also known as the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus, this ancient church is believed to be the oldest church in Cairo. It is famous for its beautiful interior and religious relics.
- The Babylon Fortress: This ancient fortress dates back to the Roman period and was used to protect the eastern borders of Egypt. It is now an important archaeological site that attracts many visitors.
- The Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan: This grand mosque and school were built in the 14th century and are known for their impressive architectural design and historical significance.
Overall, these buildings and landmarks are just a few examples of the many iconic structures that can be found in Old Cairo, each with its own unique story and cultural significance.